Kenny Baker, Original R2-D2 Actor Has Died

Kenny Baker, best known as originating the role of the droid R2-D2 for Star Wars has died after an extended illness. The news was announced by his niece Abigail Shield and first reported in The Guardian. He was 81.

Baker played the fan-favorite character in the first six Star Wars film, while serving as a “consultant” on the character for Episode VII. In addition, he appeared in classic 80s films such as The Elephant Man and Time Bandits.